Choosing the Best Photographer for Your Taste

As you read the heading of this section of my blog, you might wonder, "why would he want to do anything but market his own photography?" Better yet, your thought may be, "here comes an advertisement for his services." You would be wrong on both counts. Let me explain...

First, I must say that I hope that my skills as a photographer wins over those who visit my site in search of such services. However, I also understand that hiring the right photographer for your taste is often the most important part of your event planning (wedding, class reunion, quince, etc.). The one question I ask potential clients is, "have you checked out other photographers and viewed their photos." If not, I highly recommend that they do so. Not because I want to loose a sale, but because I want those who hire me to be perfectly sure that I produce the style of photographs that they'll always be happy with throughout their lifetime.

Before you choose your photographer, it is important to note that while each of our goals are to capture traditional, photojournalistic, artistic etc. photos, each and every photographer has their own style. Every photographer is different. We like different lighting styles, poses, and effects. Personally, I prefer the black and white landscapes, capturing hands during a wedding, and getting down low to take group photographs. I also like to try new and different things. Take caution when meeting a photographer who says they can handle any type of photograph you want. Most likely, that is not the case.

Another cautionary note: As I was perusing Craig's List (an online classified web site) the other day looking for individuals searching for wedding photographers, I noticed a common theme among other photographers offering their services. Often, an ad would read: "Wedding Photographer Available. Will take up to 500 photos and place on a disk for your use. All for the low price of $150." That may sounds like a great deal. Let me explain why it is not. First and most likely, the photographer will shoot photographs without any thought to their shots. Second, the photo CD will probably be filled with large, unedited and unorganized file sizes. A "real photographer" takes pride in his or her work and is willing to take more personal time with each photo and with every client. For that, the price is usually higher, but the quality is remarkably better. For example, if I shoot 1200 digital images (typical for a wedding), I go through EACH and EVERY ONE and pick out the very best shots. I then go back through, checking for color balance, photo density correction, etc. I have complete control over the output of my clients' photos which leads to happy clients.

All of that said, I would love for you to use my services, however, before you sign on the dotted line, it's important to make sure that the photographer has the "eye" that you are looking for.